An anal fistula is also called as fistula- in -ano, it is a small channel that develops between the end of the anal canal and the skin near the anus. This is a painful condition, especially when the patient is passing stools. It can also cause bleeding and discharge during defecation.
Symptoms
Pain- Constant pain which gets worse when sitting down
Irritation around the anus, like swelling, redness, and tenderness
Straining during bowel movements
Discharge of blood or pus
The only cure for an anal fistula is surgery. The type of surgery will depend on the position of the anal fistula. Most patients are treated by simply laying open the fistula tract to flush out pus, called Fistulotomy.
Advancement flap procedures: When the fistula is considered complex, carrying a high risk of incontinence, then this advanced technique is used.
VAAFT: This is a novel, most advanced and minimally invasive way of treating complex anal fistula. Here the fistula tracts are visualized from inside with video assistance and the tract is fulgurated and closed
Other techniques like Fibrin glue and Bioprosthetic plug are also used to surgically treat anal fistulas. Anal Fistula is completely curable.
